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Overview

 

This course offers a practical approach to developing skills in garden horticulture, sowing and growing techniques, cultivating plants, and with options to learn about horse care, wildlife and conservation. All of this will provide you with the knowledge and confidence to move on to higher education or into land-based employment.

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How will I learn?

Woodpecker Court consists of an on-site smallholding with a vast range of animals, greenhouse and vegetable gardens to enable learners to get hands on with the day-to-day running of a smallholding. You will assist with the running of the smallholding in relation to horticulture.

 

You will carry out research projects and take control of your own education to gain knowledge in a sector that interests you.

 

In year two you will be able to carry out a work placement and gain skills from professionals in your chosen sector.

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What will I learn?

You will start by learning about organisation tools and techniques and working with others to give you a kick start at being able to take control of your education and prioritise your tasks.

 

Students are involved with the general maintenance of the farm and structures, and planting and maintaining plants. All of this gives students the confidence to care for land and farm animals and continue onto further education. There is also the opportunity to develop knowledge and skills in floristry and wildlife conservation.

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How will it be delivered 

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Work is split 50:50 between practical and theory sessions. The vast majority of assessments are done through internal practical observations whilst working with the farm, as the nature of our provision caters for those who struggle with the classroom environment.  There is some written work involved, students will undertake research individually.

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Next Steps

This can lead to further in depth study at level 1, level 2, or an Apprenticeship, Traineeship or employment in the sector.